Kevin’s blog

Little’s education plan: a breakdown

Lt. Gov. Brad Little’s three-page education plan unveils a few new wrinkles, sidesteps a couple of touchy topics — and works in a few digs at his political opposition.

Huckleberry pie rhubarb? Despite grumbling, committee serves up dessert bill

A fourth-grade class wants the huckleberry pie designated the state’s dessert. But some lawmakers have no appetite for the idea.

Trump budget II: More proposed cuts, more money for school choice

“The president’s budget request expands education freedom for America’s families while protecting our nation’s most vulnerable students,” Education Secretary Betsy DeVos said. But the proposal puts two popular programs on the chopping block.

Nampa lawmaker proposes new bill to limit electioneering

The Republican representative does not want public dollars spent politicking for or against ballot measures. This time around, the Idaho School Boards Association supports his bill.

AP: New PAC raises $261,000 ahead of Republican primary

Donors to the fledgling Idaho First PAC include the father of gubernatorial candidate Tommy Ahlquist, and the board chairman of the J.A. and Kathryn Albertson Family Foundation, the Associated Press reported Thursday.

Souza unveils another bill to move school board elections

In other news Wednesday, Gov. Butch Otter’s office unveils its latest bill to create an “adult completer” college scholarship for older students.

Jordan resigns from Legislature to focus on governor’s race

Paulette Jordan had been splitting her time between campaigning and serving in the House. In other news, a former House Democratic leader is backing Boise school trustee A.J. Balukoff’s gubernatorial campaign.

As advanced opportunities program grows, some gaps are evident

In 2016-17, 27,859 junior and senior high school students took college-level classes. But students of color and students in poverty are less likely to take advantage of the state’s program.

Coeur d’Alene hires new superintendent

Steven Cook is deputy superintendent in the 68,000-student Douglas County School District in suburban Denver. He will assume the top job in Coeur d’Alene on July 1.